The following excerpt is adapted with permission from an article by Kelly Dobos of Kao Corp., titled, "How Do Skin Moisturizers Work," which was featured on the Chemist's Corner. The article discusses how moisturizers work on skin with respect to the three main ingredient categories: humectants, emollients and occlusive agents.

Sep 13, 2010

Sep 8, 2010 | Anthony J. O'Lenick Jr., Siltech LLC

Tony O’Lenick asks Art Hein of Jarchem to explain the difference between linear, branched and unsaturated alcohols and acids. These properties can be used by the formulator to choose the correct ester for a given formulation.

The distribution of a conditioning shampoo’s cationic polymers and silicone oils along the hair fiber defines its performance. Therefore in the present paper, researchers conduct spectroscopy and microscopy measurements to assess the polymer and silicone deposition of various conditioning systems on hair fibers, the results of which are used to compare efficacy.

Aug 10, 2010 | Anthony J. O'Lenick Jr., Siltech LLC

The presence of ionic groups affects silicone in an analogous way to how ionic groups affect fatty surfactants. Here, Tony O'Lenick explains how molecular modifications to silicones can result in ionic complexes that are soluble in water and compatible with each other.

Aug 3, 2010

Desert Whale has launched two emollients derived from fruit; one using lime oil with a twist, i.e. hydrogenated vegetable oil to improve barrier function, and another that combines a number of fruit oils for skin care.

May 26, 2010

AAK has combined shea and soy to heal, soothe, moisturize and add non-sticky shine to lip care products. This vegetable-derived ingredient is said to be odorless, colorless and tasteless, and in addition to lip care, it is recommended for skin care products.